Georgetown Pivot Program Hosts 2025 Pitch Competition, Showcasing Innovation and Impact

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On May 7, the Georgetown Pivot Program held its annual Pitch Competition, where fellows presented their business ventures to a panel of judges. Winners received seed funding to support the launch and growth of their innovative ideas. This year’s competition featured ventures across a wide range of industries—from home décor to transportation services—reflecting the depth of creativity of the 2025 cohort.

Johnisha Knight was awarded first place for Art-O-Mobile, a mobile art studio that brings creative programming and trauma-informed therapy directly to schools, neighborhoods, and community centers across Washington, D.C. As founder and CEO of this company, her venture is designed to expand access to the arts while also supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of individuals and families. Her experience with the healing power of art shone through in her presentation and left judges inspired.

Johnisha Knight is awarded first place for Art-O-Mobile.

Shannon Sisney, founder of Full Circle Creations, was awarded second place for her business offering custom home décor services, specializing in door wreath creations. Her pitch demonstrated a strong business model that capitalizes on the growing popularity of her wreath creations.

Shannon Sisney is awarded second place for Full Circle Creations.

Yvette Animashaun, founder of Beautiful Spaces, secured third place. Her company connects wellness and beauty professionals with premium, flexible rental suites. In addition to space, the business offers support with customer service, marketing, and client retention – services often missing in traditional suite rental models. Animashaun’s venture provides an innovative, full-service solution to a problem that many wellness and beauty professionals need to sustain their businesses.

Yvette Animashaun is awarded third place for Beautiful Spaces.

In addition, the judges recognized five fellows with Honorable Mentions for their compelling business concepts

  • Edward Martinez, Green Speed Luxury Transportation
  • Damon Jones, Staying Connected DC Family Services
  • Deonte Bryant, Royal Movers
  • Joel Smith, Press Fitness
  • Lamiek Fortson, Alchemy Property Services

The program concluded with inspiring remarks from Pivot alumni entrepreneurs Tariq Gaston and Joe Houston Jr., who shared their personal journeys and offered encouragement to the current fellows as they take the next steps in their entrepreneurial paths.

Fellows were also offered words of encouragement from Prashant Malaviya, marketing professor and vice dean of programs at the McDonough School of Business.

Prashant Malaviya, marketing professor and vice dean of programs at the McDonough School of Business, speaks to audience.

Each fellow demonstrated what’s possible when preparation meets opportunity. We look forward to witnessing the success of this wonderful cohort!